The emplacement formed part of a network of World War II defences in 1940

Unique opportunity to acquire historic building with numerous potential uses (subject to planning) on Seaton Sea Front at auction 7 November 2018

Seaton's historic former World War II Searchlight emplacement building, which is owned by East Devon District Council, is being offered for sale by public online auction through Lambert Smith Hampton, at a guide price of £20,000, on 7 November 2018, between 10am and 3 pm.

The emplacement formed part of a network of defences against the invasion in 1940 and was used to illuminate the sea and beaches to detect enemy ships and surfaced submarines at all times. A number of potential purchasers have already expressed a keen initial interest in the unique open fronted property since marketing commenced.

With a floor area of approximately 170 sq ft (16 sq m) the property occupies a prominent elevated position along the esplanade with fine views over the beach and the English Channel. The building has the added benefit of being sold with a parcel of land to the side, together with rights to construct an access over the district council's retained land.

The historical importance of the building is acknowledged and it is hoped that a new owner will be able to preserve or enhance this element as part of a programme for the refurbishment and conversion of the building to another use. A blue plaque and information board currently attached to the front of the building will be moved onto the retaining wall in front of the emplacement following the sale.

Cllr Geoff Pook, East Devon District Council's portfolio Holder for Asset Management, said:

This is an exciting opportunity to acquire an interesting and unique building on Seaton Seafront. I would hope that this opportunity will generate a great deal of interest and I look forward to seeing the building being put to an alternative beneficial use.

Lambert Smith Hampton, the auctioneers acting on behalf of the district council, said:

The property was formerly used in the Second World War as a searchlight emplacement, however, subject to planning, it could be developed to provide a multitude of uses ranging from a large private beach hut to a seafront café or retail space. The property presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of British history and to develop a unique property in a popular tourist destination on the Jurassic Coast.

Lambert Smith Hampton can be contacted on: 0207 198 2000, or email: [email protected]